When to Check Lubricant

It is not necessary to regularly check rear axle fluid unless there is a leak suspected or an unusual noise is heard. A fluid loss could indicate a problem. Have it inspected and repaired.

All axle assemblies are filled by volume of fluid during production. They are not filled to reach a certain level. When checking the fluid level on any axle, variations in the readings can be caused by factory fill differences between the minimum and the maximum fluid volume. Also, if a vehicle has just been driven before checking the fluid level, it may appear lower than normal because fluid has traveled out along the axle tubes and has not drained back to the sump area. Therefore, a reading taken five minutes after the vehicle has been driven will appear to have a lower fluid level than a vehicle that has been stationary for an hour or two. Remember that the rear axle assembly must be supported to get a true reading.

    See also:

    Cargo Management System (Wagon Only)
    Press the bottom of the load floor handle assembly to lift the top on the handle. Pull up on the handle to open the cargo management system. The cover can be opened to two positions to ...

    Playing an MP3
    While playing a CD, the navigation system is available. When you insert a CD, the CD tab displays. If a DSP setting is selected for the CD, it will be activated each time you play a CD. If you turn ...

    Door Locks
    WARNING Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers, especially children, can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle will not open it. T ...